REHABILITATION OF AGRICULTURAL WORKERS WITH CHRONIC MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS: A PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC ANALYSIS

Abstract

Individuals that do repetitive physical labor as farmers and other agriculture workers almost always suffer from chronic musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) because they lack easy access to care.  The aim of the study is to apply a controlled experimental study design to determine the effectiveness of physiotherapy in the recovery of such people.  In 20 individuals with identified MSDs, targeted rehabilitation based on mobilization, strengthening, pain control, and functional training occurred in four weeks.  The primary clinical results that were analyzed included the degree of pain (VAS), range of motion (ROM), muscle strength (MRC scale), disability index, treatment attendance, and adherence with therapy.  Upon getting the results, there were significant improvements in each one of them.  The frequency of those who experienced the reduction of pain was an average of 60 percent and greater than 30 degrees in the range of motion (ROM).  The muscle strength improved in 80 percent of cases to muscle grade 4 and disability index plummeted to a mean of 38 percent compared to 68 percent prior to treatment.  Statistical data indicated the presence of robust correlations between the acts of adherence to therapy and measurements of improvement (e.g., r = -0.78 in case of pain and r = 0.82 in case of ROM). Another factor that was predicted through regression modeling was adherence and attendance as the primary factors associated with recovery.  These data were supported by line graphs, hybrid plots and heatmaps in visual analytics.  The conclusion of the study is that the application of physiotherapy is a highly effective method to ensure that it helps agricultural workers to restore their musculoskeletal functioning and proposes that such forms of treatment should also be a part of the rural health infrastructure.